The American actress was joined by her family at Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium to see Sunday's English Premier League match against West Ham.

And they were among the few United fans with anything to smile about after the 1-1 draw as Roberts' three children were able to enjoy a kick-about on the field of the record 20-time English soccer champions.

United's chances of winning the Premier League are already fading after a fourth consecutive home game without a win. Jose Mourinho's sixth-placed team is 11 points behind leader Chelsea after one third of the season.

Roberts won an Oscar in 2001 for her portrayal of crusading legal advocate "Erin Brockovich." She received Oscar nominations for "Steel Magnolias" and "Pretty Woman."